Negative media coverage fuels discrimination in social benefits allocation.
Negative media coverage increases discrimination against migrants in social benefits allocation.
Why it matters
- Shows how media can influence public administration, leading to discrimination.
- Highlights the impact of societal biases on state decision-making.
- Can erode trust in public institutions among affected groups.
By the numbers
- 1,400 case workers from 60 job centres participated.
- Stronger effect in regions with high migration skepticism.
The big picture
- Media, social norms, and administrative decisions are closely intertwined.
- Suggests measures like media literacy training and standardized decision-making processes.
What they're saying
- Mixed reactions: some blame racism, others discuss broader implications of migration.
- One comment criticizes the thread for intolerance, suggesting inherent racism is the issue.
Caveats
- Study is based on an experiment, which may not fully reflect real-world conditions.
- Large sample size adds credibility.
What’s next
- Measures like media literacy training and standardized decision-making processes could help combat discrimination.